PCAB shifts to unannounced inspections of compounding pharmacies

CARY, N.C. – The Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) has approved a policy of unannounced surveys of pharmacies up for renewal and on an interim basis.

PCAB said Tuesday that the policy change is intended to improve the accreditation process and foster greater recognition and acceptance of accreditation as a standard for compounding pharmacies.

Plans call for unannounced renewal surveys to begin on Sept. 1, according to the board.

"Participation in this unannounced survey process is another indication of an accredited pharmacy's commitment to the adherence to quality standards," Joe Cabaleiro, executive director of PCAB, said in a statement. "This sets accredited pharmacies apart from others in their communities and gives the public another compelling reason to select a PCAB-accredited pharmacy."

PCAB noted that accredited pharmacies have expressed support of the unannounced survey policy.

"We are excited to be one of the first PCAB pharmacies to receive the new unannounced survey because it further demonstrates PCAB's commitment to quality and reflects our philosophy to approach every day as an inspection day," commented Eric Everett, owner of O'Brien Pharmacy in Mission, Kan.

Charles Leiter, president and chief executive officer of Leiter's Compounding Pharmacy in San Jose, Calif., also welcomed the unannounced surveys. "This new process helps level the playing field for all of us," he stated. "Now if a hospital, patient or doctor needs a compounded preparation and they select a PCAB-accredited pharmacy, they can feel comfortable with their decision."

PCAB added that it will work closely with accredited pharmacies and new applicants to ensure a smooth transitioning from announced to unannounced surveys.